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ESL @ VCPL

The VCPL’s LifeLong Learning Center offers a free, English as a Second Language (ESL) conversational program. The LifeLong Learning Center’s program is a member of ProLiteracy, a not-for-profit international organization that advocates for adult literacy. The VCPL ESL service is available for Vigo County’s adult, pre-college level English language learners, who are residents and long-term visitors.

Partnerships with area colleges and universities to provide experiential learning opportunities for students as tutors, is possible on a case-by-case basis with a prior agreement between the professor supervising the project and the LifeLong Learning Center Manager. Participating college students will be subject to the same policies and interviewing process as volunteer tutors from the community. Background checks will need to be provided for college students involved in the VCPL ESL tutoring program.

Adult ESL Learners

The Women’s Conversation Group, a large group class, meets every Wednesday from 10 am – 12 noon. It is a multi-leveled group. Instruction is provided by the LLC Manager. Some literacy-focused topics include: everyday conversation, health, technology, popular culture, the environment, social justice issues, cross- cultural exchange, and visual arts, and navigating local healthcare and school systems. Pre-registration is not required.

One-to-one tutoring with a volunteer ESL tutor requires registration (application form below). Individuals are matched according to the availability of volunteers, mutual scheduling preferences and waiting list order. Instruction is based on each learner’s needs and goals.

Please read the requirements for participation (Student Policies) on the first page of the application.

The LifeLong Learning Center loans books and CD’s for improving English language skills. Beginning English level Spanish and Chinese speakers can learn basic English from the free online program, PowerSpeak, available through the Library’s website. Intermediate ESL learners are encouraged to use the library’s free program, Learn4Life, which offers 6 week courses (24 total hours each) in English grammar and writing to prepare for college entry and work.

Adult Volunteer ESL Tutors

VCPL's ESL program provides training and ongoing support to its volunteer ESL tutors. Instruction is learner-driven and lesson plans are designed by the tutor to meet the individual goals of each learner.

To apply as a tutor in the VCPL's ESL Program, please read the eligibility requirements (Tutor Policies) on the first page of the tutor application. Print the application, complete, and return it to LLC: (opens with Microsoft Word).

Placement with an ESL learner will take place after a background check and training is completed.

After placement, tutors commit to at least six months of tutoring, for two consecutive hours per week. Additional time for lesson planning is required. Tutoring takes place in the Lifelong Learning Center.